He was also an early advocate of Western science and culture in Japan
Okuma moves to Dutch studies institution in 1861
Founder of Waseda University
He studied rangaku (Dutch studies) and learned English and international law
Even though Okuma was neither a samurai, nor from Satsuma or Choshu, he helps Japan to interact with the western force.
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What did Okuma Shigenobu do?
During his trip to Nagasaki, he met a Dutch Missionary, Guido Verbeck. He influenced Okuma a lot in political thinking and support abolishing feudal system for a constitutional government.
During his last years, he authored the book "The harmony of Eastern and Western Civilizations" (Tozai bunmei no chowa)
In 1868, Meiji Restoration, Okuma was placed in charge of foreign affairs for the new Meiji government.
Okuma by negotiating with Harry Smith Parkes, the British diplomat, Christianity was open to Japan in 1873.
sources: Beasley, W.G. (1963). The Making of Modern Japan. London: Weidenfeld and Nicolson. Borton, Hugh (1955). Japan's Modern Century. New York: The Ronald Press Company. "Okuma Shigenobu 大ééä¿¡ (1838-1922)." Japan Glossary. Web. 06 May 2012. <http://www.wa-pedia.com/glossary/okuma_shigenobu.shtml>.
Basic Information
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What did Okuma Shigenobu do?
sources:
Beasley, W.G. (1963). The Making of Modern Japan. London: Weidenfeld and Nicolson.
Borton, Hugh (1955). Japan's Modern Century. New York: The Ronald Press Company.
"Okuma Shigenobu 大ééä¿¡ (1838-1922)." Japan Glossary. Web. 06 May 2012. <http://www.wa-pedia.com/glossary/okuma_shigenobu.shtml>.
Images:
"Google Images." Google Images. Web. 06 May 2012. <http://www.google.co.kr/imghp?hl=ko>.